Basic Table Etiquette

Providing the experience of fine and casual dining for our youth can profoundly impact their lives. Beyond simply enjoying a meal, these experiences offer valuable life lessons, opportunities for personal growth, and a chance to build confidence and social skills. Here are some of the benefits and aspects of providing fine and casual dining experiences to these young individuals:​

1. Etiquette and Manners

2. Confidence Building

3. Social Skills

Etiquette Class Guideline: Using Your Phone During Meals

If you're alone in the kitchen and your meal is just about nourishment, feel free to text. No problem! But if you're having dinner with friends and family, be present with them. Even if your phone is in your lap, everyone knows what you're doing when your eyes are focused downward. Just because texting is a silent activity (unlike a phone call), it doesn’t mean you’re fooling anyone. Your divided attention is noticeable, and it can make others feel unimportant.

1. The guideline is to avoid texting during any type of social interaction—whether it’s a conversation, listening, being in class, attending a meeting, or especially at the dinner table.

2. If you absolutely need to communicate with someone who isn’t at the event or table, excuse yourself politely, send your message, and then return as quickly as possible.

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1. Special Occasions

2. Exposure to Career Opportunities

3. Building Positive Memories

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1. Team Building

2. Leadership Opportunities

3. Real-World Skills

When it comes to table manners, keeping your elbows off the table is an important rule. Placing your elbows on the table during a meal is considered impolite for several reasons:

1. Space and Comfort: Keeping your elbows off the table ensures there is enough space for everyone to eat comfortably. Elbows on the table can encroach on the space of others and make the dining experience less pleasant.

2. Attention and Engagement: Good posture at the table, with your hands and forearms resting on your lap or the edge of the table, shows that you are engaged and paying attention to the conversation. It signals respect for the company you are with.

3. Cleanliness: Keeping your elbows off the table helps maintain cleanliness. It prevents you from accidentally knocking over glasses or touching food with your sleeves.